Meltdown: Asperger’s Disorder, Challenging Behavior, and a Family’s Journey Toward Hope

by James G. Balestrieri, Jeff Krukar PhD, Katie Gutierrez

Based on dozens of intensive interviews with parents, clinical psychologists, teachers, and more, Meltdown is the fictional story of Benjamin, a boy diagnosed with Asperger’s disorder and additional challenging behavior. From the time Benjamin is a toddler, his parents know he is he doesn’t play with his sister, refuses to make eye contact, and doesn’t seem to understand how to communicate with others. And his tantrums are not like normal tantrums; they’re meltdowns that will eventually make regular schooling—and day-to-day life—impossible. From first clues to diagnosis, navigating the special education system to securing expert help, Benjamin’s parents must become his greatest advocates. Together, they learn that the journey toward hope isn’t simple—but with the right tools and teammates, it’s possible. This book is part of the ORP Library of disability books.SPECIAL Asperger’s disorder is a complex syndrome that affects children in different ways. The child with Asperger’s disorder depicted in the following story struggles with significant emotional and behavioral difficulties that require a therapeutic environment. The great majority of children with Asperger’s disorder do not resemble the child shown in this story. But those who do face challenges that have made it difficult to benefit from education in the public school system. At Genesee Lake School, we strive to build relationships with the children in our care so that they learn new skills that will lead to a successful return to their home, school, and community. It is our hope that the following story will add to your own understanding of the often lonely journey experienced by families with children with these unique challenges and gifts.

142 pages, Paperback

First published December 21, 2012

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an incredibly thoughtful, practical, and hopeful book. I had yet to read a book about autism that so closely identified the challenges families face so accurately. It was such a relief to hear about the struggles we see daily more normalized and then hear about how the strategies provided brought results. I recognize that every child with Asd is unique and not all of the ideas work for every child but with the right supports, this book highlighted the ways these children can overcome their most challenging behaviors and become fully independent, indispensable members of their families and communities.